Decarbonization and Digitalization in Maritime Shipping

This white paper identifies the current state, challenges, trends, and strategies for decarbonizing the maritime shipping sector, with a focus on the role of digital technologies. Maritime shipping is a crucial mode of freight transport, accounting for approximately 80% of global merchandise trade. Despite being one of the less carbon-intensive transportation methods, the sector contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas emissions, projected to increase dramatically by 2050 under a business-as-usual scenario. The paper discusses the concentration of shipping activities among a few key players and the necessity for these organizations to commit to emission reduction strategies. Various decarbonization scenarios are analyzed, highlighting differences in emissions accounting, carbon budget allocations, and the ambitions set by different studies. The paper also outlines available decarbonization levers, emphasizing the introduction of low-carbon alternative fuels as a critical strategy, while noting the challenges and timeframes associated with their implementation.